In some circumstances, your accidental misuse Detroit fraud lawyer of someone’s—or even your own—card could get you in trouble with the law. At Davis Law Group, we can help you fight your Michigan FTD charges so that you can avoid the fraud penalties and tarnished reputation resulting from a conviction.
It’s Illegal to Steal, Alter, or Possess a Stolen FTD
According to § 150.157n of the Michigan Penal Code, it is illegal to steal or to keep the FTD of another person without their permission. The statute also prohibits people from knowingly possessing a fraudulent or altered FTD.
Michigan Penal Code § 750.157p prohibits the possession of another person’s FTD with the intent to use it, to sell it, or to otherwise distribute it.
Michigan Penal Code § 750.157r states that people who forge, alter, simulate, or counterfeit an FTD will be guilty of a felony.
These statutes do not specify sentences and fines for committing these felonies. In any case, according to a recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling, sentencing judges are no longer required to follow the statutes’ recommended penalties. But even if you receive a light sentence, having even one felony entry on your record can affect your ability to get a job, rent a house, vote, and carry a firearm.
The Penalties for Using a Cancelled FTD
When a person attempts to fraudulently use a cancelled—as opposed to expired—FTD for the purpose of obtaining goods, services, or other things of value, 750.157s of the Michigan Penal Code applies.
- When the amount of goods or services purchased is less than $100, the penalty for committing this misdemeanor can reach 93 days imprisonment and a fine of $500 or 3 times the value of the things obtained—whichever is greater
- For second offenders of the above section, the penalty may be as high as 1 year in prison and/or a fine of $1,000
- If the value of the goods or services is between $100 and $500, the penalty for committing this misdemeanor can be 1 year in prison and/or a fine of $1,000 or 3 times the value of the things purchased—whichever is greater
- For third offenders of the above section, the penalty is a felony that can result in a fine of $2,000 and/or imprisonment for 2 years
- For an offense involving more than $500, the penalty for this felony may be 2 years in prison along with a fine of $2,000 or 3 times the value of the things purchased—whichever is greater.
